South African Artistry

January 17, 2014

During the Atlanta International Gift & Home Furnishings Market last week, I had the pleasure of spending some time at South Africa's Lifestyle Hub, located at Americasmart in Building 1, suite 5-E-16.

The new permanent showroom, launched by the South African Department of Trade and Industry and Small Enterprise Development Agency, features furniture, lighting, soft goods, ceramics, art and accessories crafted by South African artisans. According to Brand South Africa, a publicly funded organization charged with promoting the country, the goal of the showroom is "to help emerging artisans and crafts people break into the U.S. market for handmade textiles, clothing, furniture and decorative housewares."

Based on my experience there, I'd say it's off to a good start.

Managed by McGlobal Explorers, the showroom greets visitors with its eye-catching acacia wood floor. The glass panels beside the entrance feature tributes to the late Nelson Mandela, which are also presented throughout the space.

When I walked in, I was captivated by the expert artistry on display. Markets always impress upon me the wealth of creativity that permeates this industry, and South Africa's Lifestyle Hub reminded me of the ingenuity and skill that exists across the globe.

One company whose wares are showcased in the space, Bayede, was developed as a job creation initiative under Zulu King Goodwill Zwelithini and crafts everything from clothing and jewelry to pottery and pillows. Other designs include baskets woven from palm leaves, textured ceramics, decorative animal figures made from wire and beads and even ottomans that incorporate recycled tires.